St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier, the visionary foundress of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, continues to inspire generations of women and men to follow in the footsteps of her unwavering and zealous commitment to compassion, mercy, and service. Every July 31, her birthday is marked by celebrations spanning continents, where sisters, partners-in-mission, program participants, students, staff, and all those engaged in our global mission come together to honor her life and legacy. Here’s a glimpse at how various regions celebrated this special occasion.
Unity in Reflection and Sharing in Australia and Aotearoa-New Zealand
Sisters across the province gathered virtually for a reflection session inspired by St. Mary Euphrasia’s teachings. The event began with quotes from her writings:
"May your zeal be universal, not affected either by countries or individuals."
"Do you know what draws down God’s special protection, which upholds our mission and gives us such strength? It is the union between us, the spirit of unity."
Participants explored the questions, “What does the spirit of unity mean to us?” and “What gives us energy and hope?” Amid the challenges of today’s world, the session emphasized living in the present with unity, grace, and humor while fostering the Good Shepherd spirit. It was a powerful reminder of the shared mission to serve with faith and compassion.
Joyful Expressions in Mysuru, India
The Good Shepherd Convent in Mysuru celebrated St. Mary Euphrasia’s birth anniversary with grandeur. A procession featuring her portrait, led by students and staff, set the tone for the day. From prayer services to cultural performances, the event reflected the lively spirit of unity and gratitude among attendees. Graceful dances, reflective addresses, and captivating storytelling brought her life and mission to the forefront.
With a sense of inspiration, the celebration concluded as a tribute to her legacy of love, courage, and unwavering dedication to serving humanity.
Heartfelt Gatherings in Lebanon and Syria
Despite the simplicity of their celebrations, the centers in Lebanon and Syria commemorated St. Mary Euphrasia’s birthday with deep reverence. Masses were held for three consecutive days at Ain Saade and Hamana, bringing together sisters and staff in prayer and unity. These moments of spiritual reflection allowed the community to honor our foundress’ enduring love and mission even amidst the ongoing challenges they are living through in the Middle East.
Looking ahead, the sisters will begin their annual spiritual retreat on August 16. This time of renewal will also serve as a deeper communal celebration of our foundress, allowing the sisters to reconnect with her vision and recommit to her path of compassion and reconciliation.
Temporary Vows, Perpetual Vows, And Silver Jubilee Celebration in Kenya
There was a real sense of the living legacy of St. Mary Euphrasia at St. John The Evangelist Holy Ghost Parish, Nairobi, Kenya, as women made their initial and perpetual commitment to dedicate their lives to the Good Shepherd mission alongside other women who were celebrating having spent 25 years doing so. Watch the video of this life-giving event below.
A Renewed Commitment in Latin America
Across Northern Latin America, the celebration of St. Mary Euphrasia’s birthday focused on reawakening the Good Shepherd charism. Events that took place in the communities and apostolates honored her dedication to restoring dignity and hope to the marginalized. Sisters and partners-in-mission recommitted to extending the love of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, through acts of compassion and reconciliation.
The communities were called to listen to untold stories, offer healing to those in need, and be a beacon of hope, creating a spiritual home for the marginalized. These celebrations were a profound renewal of the mission embedded in St. Mary Euphrasia’s legacy.
A Transformative Call to Action
St. Mary Euphrasia’s life remains a source of inspiration, urging everyone to extend charity, compassion, and reconciliation in their daily lives. Across cultures and countries, her spirit continues to guide the global Good Shepherd mission in 67 countries. Through vibrant celebrations and reflections, sisters and partners-in-mission are reminded of their calling to embody her values in service to the world.
Join the Celebration of Good Shepherd Values
St. Mary Euphrasia’s birthday is more than a celebration; it’s a time to renew our collective commitment to her vision. Whether through action, advocacy or prayer, her spirit inspires all of us to be agents of change.
If you’re drawn to this mission and wish to learn more about how you can contribute, connect with us today. Together, let us walk in the footsteps of St. Mary Euphrasia and be a light of hope in the world.
